Prunier Vintage 1982 Grande Champagne Cognac

Prunier 1982 Vintage Grande Champagne Cognac: Luxurious Length and Natural Cask Strength

The Prunier Vintage 1982 Grande Champagne Cognac is simply Premier Cru perfection. After the Ugni Blanc grapes were harvested in 1982, the distilled eaux-de-vie were left to mature in old Limousin oak casks for nearly 30 years at the Prunier estate, before being bottled in 2011.

A limited edition of only a few hundred bottles, this rare Cognac from arguably the most reputable region - Grande Champagne - has gained momentum and popularity amongst connoisseurs thanks to its full body, finesse and complex character.

The legal requirements to receive a vintage status are relatively strict and difficult to achieve for Cognac producers. The seal of a single year demijohn must only be broken by a sworn representative before being bottled, and therefore none of the Cognac stored inside can be touched, tasted or removed throughout the aging process. Thanks to this natural method of allowing the Cognac to fully express itself, untouched by human hands for almost three decades, the 1982 Vintage Grande Champagne has a higher ABV of 55.8% and is therefore considered a natural cask strength Cognac.

Presentation of the bottle

Prunier vintage bottles are inspired by a design from the 19th century, developed by the ancestors of current manager Claude Burnez. Each bottle is blown semi-manually by French artisans using traditional methods and therefore each bottle is completely unique with its bubbles trapped inside. 

Each bottle is sealed with wax, replicating the strict process of sealing the demijohns to protect and prove the Cognac's vintage status. The 1982 Vintage Grande Champagne has a golden wax seal with luxurious gold and pink detailing on the body of the bottle. Each of the limited editions has been individually numbered on the label. 

The bottle comes with a stunning wooden box adorned with the Maison Prunier logo for display, storage or gifting purposes.

How to Enjoy Prunier 1982 Vintage Grande Champagne Cognac

As with many vintage Cognacs like this, it’s best to enjoy it neat, perhaps with friends or loved ones to celebrate a particular anniversary or birthday from this year. 

Leave the Cognac for a few minutes once it’s poured into a traditional tulip glass, and make sure to swirl the glass to increase aeration in order to appreciate its aromas and enjoy the plethora of flavors on the palate.

If you feel this vintage may be a little strong for your tastes, you're welcome to add a few drops of water or even a few ice cubes. It makes a delightful digestif, especially when enjoyed alongside a cigar or an espresso.